What’s not to love about a low-key rehearsal dinner? Immediate family, out-of-town guests and of course, bridesmaids, groomsmen and flower girls or ring bearers gather after the ceremony run-through to eat, drink and toast to the future newlyweds. It’s quality time spend with those loved ones, who you most likely won’t have enough time to hold long conversations with during the reception and a way to mellow out any pre-wedding jitters you may have.

Kick off the weekend with our favorite summer cocktails and appetizers and end the outdoor picnic with one of these regional comfort foods below.

Wedding season is in full force this month! While most brides choose to have an outdoor wedding to enjoy the weather, they also whether it. It can be risky! Heat and rain are two of the major concerns, so be sure to have a backup plan. If it rains, have a tent ready-to-go. If it’s hot, have chilled flavored water in decorative beverage tappers or programs that double as fans. Keep your guests in the shade as much as possible . If not, consider providing sunscreen and bug spray. Just remember, don’t sweat it as long as you’re prepared!

Where are you having your summer wedding? Let us know in the poll below!

Brides look forward to their last night out as a single lady before their big day. That’s why the maid of honor and bridesmaids do the honor of hosting. Not only should they decide on a date that is not the night before the wedding, (unless they want to remake the Hangover), but also pick a theme that suits the bride’s style. A typical bash drags the bride from bar to bar and makes her blush at the sight of any man. However, there are endless ways to celebrate, reminisce and of course, laugh. Start planning with some of these low-key ideas if you need help!

Whether it’s yesterday’s golden oldies or today’s pop hits, music is the key to having a full dance floor at any reception. Can’t decide who should play your wedding tunes? Surprisingly enough, the type of entertainment you choose often sets the tone of your reception and solidifies your theme. That’s why you’ll need to work with your band or DJ to incorporate a mixture of musical genres that will entertain all age groups. Meaning you’ll want them to hit the right notes with your playlist, so you can send your guests home with happy feet!

Which must-have songs did you put on your playlist? Let us know in the comments below!

The maid of honor and often bridesmaids share the responsibility of hosting the bridal shower, according to tradition. Surprisingly though, it’s common for a bride to have more than one bridal shower. In that case, the host(s) should make sure that there is no duplication of guests on each list. The guest list should be filled with the bride’s nearest and dearest family and friends whereas the menu should be filled with the sweetest of treats. (Tip: Every guest that is invited to the bridal shower should already be on the wedding guest list.) Invitations, including registry information, should be sent out six weeks to one month in advance. One of guests’ favorite rituals at a bridal shower is making a bouquet out of ribbons and bows from the opened gifts so the bride can use it at the rehearsal. However, it’s perfectly acceptable to start your own ritual.

What’s your favorite ritual at a bridal shower? Let us know in the comments below!